AKRON, Ohio -- Don't try to high-five Phil Mickelson. And hand-slapping as he walks around the ropes during the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational? Forget about it.

After shooting a 1-over 71 in his first round at Firestone Country Club, the popular golfer said he thinks his exuberant interaction with fans might be the culprit in causing a case of strep throat that he's still battling.

Mickelson said he contracted strep shortly after the British Open two weeks ago, and has been put on medication that lowers his immune system -- further necessitating his step back from physical contact.

"I've got to be a little bit careful on some of the high-fives and hand-slapping and stuff because it looks like that's the cause of me getting sick," he said. "So I've got to cut some of that out."

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